When Misbah-ul-Haq chose to bat, the skies were overcast and the pitch had been under covers following overnight rain. The ball moved around for a while, and Pakistan lost their openers inside six overs. Then came in Younis Khan and fought his way through to lunch. By stumps, Younis was batting on 133, had equalled Mohammad Yousuf for 24 Test centuries, the second-most by a Pakistani, and had gone past the latter's 7530 Test runs.

Younis and Azhar Ali started the resistance from 19 for 2. Younis then added 100 with his captain Misbah and piled on an unbroken 105 with Asad Shafiq. Rangana Herath persevered for 26 overs, and took out Azhar Ali and Misbah with rippers, but even he could not dislodge Younis, who just got better and better as the day progressed.

There was swing as well as seam in the morning, and the hustling pace of Dhammika Prasad made the combination hard to tackle. He moved the ball in consistently and took the odd one away, leaving Azhar, in particular, groping. Before that, Ahmed Shehzad failed to cover enough for an inswinger, and chopped on his third ball on to the middle stump. His opening partner, Khurram Manzoor, kept falling over in his stance and was caught in front with another incoming delivery.

Azhar, aside from his struggles, also played some lovely cover drives for fours. Those boundaries were a fitting reply to the pressure Prasad created, but after the burst from the fast bowler, Pakistan had to contend with relentless examination from Herath. Finding turn and occasional bounce early in the match, Herath pitched one on middle stump, drew Azhar forward, and spun it past the outside edge to strike the top of off.

Younis took his time as usual, gradually playing himself in. He hung back when he could, and also used the sweep regularly to counter the spinners. The frequency of the stroke only increased after lunch, and Younis swept and reverse-swept Dilruwan Perera off successive deliveries. It was Misbah's turn to try a paddle off the very next ball, and Perera switched to round the wicket thereafter.

It only allowed Younis to bat even more positively against the offspinner; the batsman collected 48 off the 43 balls he faced from Perera. Just before drinks in the second session, Younis swept, lofted and drove Perera for three consecutive fours. Younis also stepped out to hit Perera for six. Two balls later, he hit a reverse-sweep in the air, and Mahela Jayawardene, moving to his right from slip, got both hands to it but could not hold on. Younis was on 68.

He had already reviewed twice successfully, once on 20 after being given caught behind off Prasad, and on 59 after he was adjudged leg-before to Perera. On the first occasion, replays showed there was no bat involved, and on the second, the ball-tracker showed the delivery would have bounced just over the stumps.

Misbah had a review against him turned down when he was yet to get off the mark, with replays signalling umpire's call on the point of impact off Angelo Mathews. Misbah took his first run off his 17th delivery, and his second scoring shot was a hook off Prasad off his 40th. He was happy to stay right back or lunge right forward and defend initially as Younis went about the scoring business. Sweeps and nudges brought him the odd run. Misbah battled till his 100th delivery proved to be a Herath stunner that pitched middle and leg and jagged past the push to take a nick through to the keeper.

Shafiq joined Younis and was quite eager to punish the bad deliveries. He was particularly severe on the cut and the pull and even charged at Herath to hit him for a straight six. Pakistan rotated strike faster now and quickened up the scoring before the second new ball approached. Younis launched a series of powerful drives through the off side, the standout stroke being when he moved inside the line of a Herath ball to lift it over extra cover. With the surface having eased out considerably, the second new ball was much easier to handle than the first, and Pakistan closed the day having taken the last two sessions.

Watching Younis Khan smiling always when he bats, fields or anywhere really makes the entire Pakistani nation proud. During this testing time due to various uncertain situation in Pakistan, this man has really stood up with his great smile to bring the nation alive. Keep going YK, we are really proud of you !! :)

on August 7, 2014, 7:05 GMT

Younis Khan legendary player of the world.. Greatest man of the world... He laughs every time and situation bcoz its a cool man.. Today he will be make double century InShaAllah

umars101
on August 7, 2014, 7:04 GMT

Well done pakistan ,well done younis khan

Malik_Murad
on August 7, 2014, 6:41 GMT

Ramiz Raja during his commentary suggested Methwes to bring some changes in the field like putting a short leg, short cover, short mid-on or shot mid-off, leg gully etc. This will make the batsmen think differently. Come on Methwes, make this test an interesting one. So far in the first session of 2nd days play it has become one-sided affair.....

on August 7, 2014, 6:40 GMT

@11_warrior: Fawad alam is one who has average above 40.

on August 7, 2014, 6:32 GMT

Sri Lanka is still struggling with lack of penetrating bowlers. This clearly shows by big scoring of front line batsmen of the opposite sides.No Srilankan seamer could deliver wicket to wicket balls, causing heavy damage to the score board. A big task in front of SL trainers and selectors before the next world cup if Sl is expecting something to do.

NP_NY
on August 7, 2014, 6:19 GMT

Well done Younis Khan! This guy is one of the most under-appreciated batsmen in the world. He has an average of over 50 and has consistently dielivered mostly when Pakistan needed him. Thanks for showing the "real" quality of Srilankan bowling even in conditions that favour Srilanka. Good luck from India.

Watching Younis Khan smiling always when he bats, fields or anywhere really makes the entire Pakistani nation proud. During this testing time due to various uncertain situation in Pakistan, this man has really stood up with his great smile to bring the nation alive. Keep going YK, we are really proud of you !! :)

on August 7, 2014, 7:05 GMT

Younis Khan legendary player of the world.. Greatest man of the world... He laughs every time and situation bcoz its a cool man.. Today he will be make double century InShaAllah

umars101
on August 7, 2014, 7:04 GMT

Well done pakistan ,well done younis khan

Malik_Murad
on August 7, 2014, 6:41 GMT

Ramiz Raja during his commentary suggested Methwes to bring some changes in the field like putting a short leg, short cover, short mid-on or shot mid-off, leg gully etc. This will make the batsmen think differently. Come on Methwes, make this test an interesting one. So far in the first session of 2nd days play it has become one-sided affair.....

on August 7, 2014, 6:40 GMT

@11_warrior: Fawad alam is one who has average above 40.

on August 7, 2014, 6:32 GMT

Sri Lanka is still struggling with lack of penetrating bowlers. This clearly shows by big scoring of front line batsmen of the opposite sides.No Srilankan seamer could deliver wicket to wicket balls, causing heavy damage to the score board. A big task in front of SL trainers and selectors before the next world cup if Sl is expecting something to do.

NP_NY
on August 7, 2014, 6:19 GMT

Well done Younis Khan! This guy is one of the most under-appreciated batsmen in the world. He has an average of over 50 and has consistently dielivered mostly when Pakistan needed him. Thanks for showing the "real" quality of Srilankan bowling even in conditions that favour Srilanka. Good luck from India.

cricchanel.com
on August 7, 2014, 5:34 GMT

Slaute to great Younas Khan for anothe marvels innings and scoring 100. He is true test player and I am wonder to think that after his retirement no one is going to replace him.

Good counter attack by Younis and due to this Dilruwan could settle in good rythem.Shafiq too played postive cricket and put Pakistan in good postion.1st session on 2nd day will be the key for both team. Currently it is 60:40 Pakistan.

slinger77
on August 7, 2014, 4:17 GMT

All the people think Pak in good position. Yes they have good platform but everything depend on next two sessions. Still SL has chance, first session is key for them. SL have relatively new ball, use fast bowlers and try get few wickets in first hr and spring attacked follows.

on August 7, 2014, 3:16 GMT

Good fightback by Pakistan and veteran Younis Khan and the younger players. Younis has always scored heavily against Sri Lanka and it will take a massive effort to get him out early today or else it will be a run feast in Galle. It was good to see Mathews bowling and bowling well too. Sri Lanka once gain lacked the variety in their bowling and would have been good to have Mendis or Prasanna in the attack.SL also leaked so many runs with some unimaginative field placings and would do well to bowl line and length and curtail the visitors to a modest total today. The match is interestingly poised just like the last test played in Galle and hopefully bring a result to the side that performs well in all departments of the game.

on August 7, 2014, 3:12 GMT

if u matched the stats of younis khan with great legend of his era after 90 odd matches he's better than few players but problem for pakistan they played least test matches than other countries thts why he didn't get as many matches as others get to score big amount of runs i hope he'll play 4-5 years more atleast he'll score 10K runs

on August 7, 2014, 3:10 GMT

Younis Khan is an all-round nice guy. I am happy for him to have scored the 100 from a cricketing point-of-view, but not happy that he scored the 100 from a Sri Lankan point-of-view.

PravHP
on August 7, 2014, 2:35 GMT

Sri Lanka need good seamers.Lakmal,Eranga,Pradeep...They are not consistant.We can't win test matches without a proper seamer.johnson for aussies,steyn for saffers and that helps a lot for them in their test rankings.
A one good seamer...
Moved the tabs to see if there is a one in A squad.but couldn't see any big performance...c'mon where is the fast bowler we need...where is he?..selectors better start searching than moving with average Eranga,Lakmal and inconsistant Prasad.

on August 7, 2014, 1:58 GMT

Mattew missed the trick. Dilruwan bowled well. But Pakistan batsmen want to hit him hard. That situation should give more chances to get wickets. But demoral him not give him to keep his rhythm. Paks in good position now. It will be hard game for SL now. Still long way to go. Good luck both teams.

slinger77
on August 7, 2014, 1:09 GMT

Dhammika and Eranga are key, couple a wicket with fast bowlers in first hour is very important. Angi have to trust his Fast bowlers, give them first hour. Dhammika has prove his worth Eranga will comeback, trust them. Herath and Dilruwan are good spinners, they will do their job in later.

on August 7, 2014, 0:45 GMT

pak playing superbly ..

Cpt.Meanster
on August 7, 2014, 0:03 GMT

Younis Khan is such an underrated player. Like Mahela, Younis also played in the WRONG era in the shadows of other greats like Lara, Tendulkar, Dravid and Ponting. He has played some stellar innings for Pakistan across formats. I am sure he has a few more years left in him. Well played.

FSL2013
on August 6, 2014, 23:04 GMT

Pakistan never changes. Same old unpredictable batting that mostly ends up taking nose dive approach.

Diaz54
on August 6, 2014, 22:38 GMT

Start tomorrow morning could be interesting Pak can still crash below 300. It appear that the morning was difficult. So have to negotiate morning session.

on August 6, 2014, 21:30 GMT

Well done Pakistan, after a dismal start. Wonderful batting by Younis Khan. With that being said, there was a period where I was really worried. After Azhar departed and Misbah came in, Pakistan scoring rate really took a needless nosedive. What is wrong with taking singles at the least? Keep the scoreboard ticking without taking undue risks. I am glad Asad Shafiq was persisted with. Besides Younis, he is the most consistent performer in tests over the last two years, or more. Which baffles me when I see constant calls from fans to drop him! What does the poor guy have to do to show his mettle to the naysayers? Score a century in each inning he plays? Even the Don, Sachin, or Miandad could ever do that.

on August 6, 2014, 21:17 GMT

@Trimzi Syed. Not just that but also the fact that Australia hardly play Pakistan at all , almost seems like they tour Australia once every 10 years or so. Seriously classy batsmen who has respect world wide.

on August 6, 2014, 20:37 GMT

It was a great innings if class and shear ducipline by Yunus khan. We all thought 4 months if lay off by pak team wouldn't leave much to cheer for them.But after the dismissals of the two openers the middle order contributed well to the cause..Galle wicket has eased up but i think the zip in lankan attack.is missing..Herath is their ket and pakistanis played him well..Tomorrow fearless first hour would help pak get ti their first target 300 runs.
400 would what pakistan would be eyeing up..Yunus v rearly miss on a double ton once he passes 150..First day left the hosts sweating..still a ling way to go but with 400 plus runs you csnt be beaten easily..

Chris_P
on August 6, 2014, 19:48 GMT

Got to add my nod to a gritty effort from YK. I hope younger batsmen take note on how you should really do it. Plenty left in this test match to go.

on August 6, 2014, 19:48 GMT

well played Younas Khan. Hope so Pakistan will win the match quite comfortably.

on August 6, 2014, 19:19 GMT

Against Australia he never played any test against them at home, not even in UAE . that's why he averages only 31 against australia

Dravid_Pujara_Gravitas
on August 6, 2014, 19:06 GMT

Yousuf Youhana is definitely a better batsman than Inzamam-lu-hak. It's a shame that Youhana retired prematurely. Younis Khan is a very good batsman and a very good human being in the first place. Congrats for this century.

zarasochozarasamjho
on August 6, 2014, 18:53 GMT

This is called quality test batting;batting under pressure. Younis and Asad have to continue tomorrow where they left off today. Only 1 batsman left, and he is not dependable just like the rest. After Sarfaraz, batting is a simple write-off 9 times out of 10, though Talha is unknown quantity. If Pakistan want to win a test in SL (they have not for 8 years), a minimum score of 375 is required with the target being 400 as minimum.

on August 6, 2014, 18:45 GMT

younas khan is always there for Pakistan when there is a need of someone to score but there are some people who has issue to see him scoring

syedk
on August 6, 2014, 18:30 GMT

Younis Khan continues to amaze me. With all that he has to deal with since winning the T20 WC. The board wanted him out of ODI's, T20's and then tried to downgrade him to a level B category because he doesn't play all three formats? Yet he continues to deliver for his team, country and his fans. Hats off to this selfless cricketer. Not sure where PAK cricket would be without him. I hope selectors and the Board realize this guys commitment and that he is worth much more than a Category rating. I am never interested in winning or losing as that is part of the game. It is your WILL to fight that impresses me in any cricketer and Mr. Khan is up there among the best.

on August 6, 2014, 18:22 GMT

Outstanding performance of lower orders batsmen specially Younis & shafiq innings yet they have stood on the crease. Pak should cross the 400+r in which situation they have. It will be seen tomorrow which turn comes.

t20cric
on August 6, 2014, 18:20 GMT

Good job Younis khan I hope you and Asad shafiq can see off the first session tomorrow without losing wickets no matter the scoring rate. Then Younis should try to get another 200 and Shafiq at least 100. That will go a long way in Pakistan posting a 400-500 score. Sarfraz should play sensibly and cement his spot as wicketkeeper batsman by scoring at least 70+ and protecting the tail if he has to bat with them. If the tail can also score 40-50 runs collectively then we will probably win or at least draw the test. Nice to see Shafiq back in form and scoring at a good rate when he normally scores so slowly and gets out for 20. If it wasn't for this innings I would have immediately said that Pak made a mistake by not selecting Akmal in place of Shafiq. Just hoping that Shehzad and Manzoor can give better starts next time. If Manzoor fails in the next innings then he should be dropped for Masood, Shehzad should be retained even if he fails since its only his 4th test.

vkumar_086
on August 6, 2014, 18:04 GMT

one more series defeat is awaiting for Sri Lanka in HOME...with all seniors in team, could not able to stop Pak batting and pak is not vulnerable to spin like SA

on August 6, 2014, 17:56 GMT

It really is amazing how some of the most prolific batsmen have been back-foot players. Lara, Steve Waugh, Inzamam, Chanderpaul, and now Younis Khan, with each of them averaging around 50 have lent support to the idea that the textbook paradigmatic recommendation to come on to the front foot is over hyped.

Superb innings by younas. Good effort under difficult times. A bit lucky early on but then he was really good. Well supported by misbah and asad. A huge innings for asad. Been out of form and umar akmal waiting for place. A timely come back innings.

Openers were clue less against fast bowlers. Khurram has done nithing after that 146 vs sa. Azhar looked good for a bit. Bacuse of younas and asad, now pak can take a sigh of relief about toss decision otherwise it was going wrong in 1st session.

Still a lot to do. Wicket has eased out significantly. And it has been said that 2nd day will be the best for batting. Pak need to do alot more in batting. Atleast 400.

on August 6, 2014, 17:23 GMT

Younis! What an exhibition of quality test cricket. I am a Sri Lankan and we want you back in the dressing room. But what an exhibition for younger players.

on August 6, 2014, 17:13 GMT

Great innings by our fearless batsman. Good to see Shafiq get some runs. Amazing what happens when you know your place is under threat. Keep going Pakistan

alipk52
on August 6, 2014, 17:09 GMT

Most impressive ability he has is his scorig rate, he keeps scoring at a good pace as far as test standard is concerned, scoring @58.xx in test is very good for me.

on August 6, 2014, 17:02 GMT

Younis khan is a great player pity everyone else plays like jokers

nidokhan007
on August 6, 2014, 16:41 GMT

Well done! Younus! You don't deserve even "A" category, you have to be in "SUPER A" category.

LAKINGSFAN
on August 6, 2014, 16:34 GMT

First target for PAK is to score 400. Anything beyond that is bonus. If Pak scores 400+ on this wicket it's Pak's game. I don't expect SL to do much after Pak's 400.

on August 6, 2014, 16:12 GMT

misbah and younus great partnershp.and up to pak runs great captain misbh ur hero

on August 6, 2014, 15:53 GMT

Many congratulations to young and passionate younas khan on his brilliant innings and LTS going to worth Pakistan. Love you for your in time contributions and all hates off. May Allah grant you more health and strength to perform and lead Pakistan to a charming victory.

on August 6, 2014, 15:46 GMT

Good job! Younis Khan you are gem keep it up !

syedzafar
on August 6, 2014, 15:23 GMT

and to think the PCB was not even giving him (YK) an 'A' category contract..

on August 6, 2014, 15:22 GMT

Younis Khan has centuries all across the world except Australia. That speaks about the greatness of him.. Truly a modern great... Love his attitude ,determination and smile ...

on August 6, 2014, 15:20 GMT

51 century stands involving Younis Khan,he has gone past Miandad's 50. This quite an achievement. He is perhaps the most underrated Pakistani batsman and yet he has notched up incredible stats. I wonder what will happen to Pakistan cricket(tests) after Younis retires. I think if Pakistan cricket wants to survive they should build up a formidable fast bowling attack as there seem to be some talented fast bowlers in the pool. The problem I believe is that the kind of environment that Pakistan have in their dressing room is not particularly suited to the development of young batsmen.

Waleedkhan860
on August 6, 2014, 15:09 GMT

The wicket will be lyk a heaven fr batsman on 2nd day......pak shuld look to score around 400 nd try to bat ill tea next day.....yk has played an epic innings nd shuld be lkng fr a double century tomorrow

B.R.K.R
on August 6, 2014, 15:01 GMT

nice to see younis khan playing after a very long time, i always admired his personality and his smile while playing hard cricket at the same time, a person with a big heart !

on August 6, 2014, 15:00 GMT

"I wonder if Misbah will ever get a chance to come into the crease at peace before his career ends, I am not sure if anybody in Pakistan's management thinking to find replacement of Misbah or Younis in near future. You can't compete on international test level with this kind of fragile & inconsistent batting performance.

on August 6, 2014, 14:43 GMT

Well played yk
Build it up to 200 n make pak to pass 400
Feel sorry for azhar ali.. Was looking good..

on August 6, 2014, 14:42 GMT

Fawad Alam is the only batsman keeping an avg above 55 in first class games in Pakistan. Why do Pakistani's continue to have to ask why he isn't playing?

Shiv1994
on August 6, 2014, 14:41 GMT

Younis Khan career matches with the great Mohammad Yousaf. As similar are also the career's of Shivnarine Chanderpaul and the great Allan Border.

InamKhattak60
on August 6, 2014, 14:41 GMT

Today's innings proved that 'experience' is irreplaceable. Younis Khan, go ahead and make a double ton.

on August 6, 2014, 14:39 GMT

Younis khan is top player of pakistan and very down to earth personality...i am sure younis khan can get another 200 only he has to manage initial 10 overs of day 2..Insha ALLAH pak will win..

on August 6, 2014, 14:37 GMT

Well played yk
Build it up to 200 n make pak to pass 400
Feel sorry for azhar ali, was looking good

on August 6, 2014, 14:25 GMT

Despite been away form cricket for six month. He did amazing job with bat. Wonderful inning.

VinodGupte
on August 6, 2014, 14:23 GMT

If Pakistan scores 450+, they win.

on August 6, 2014, 14:13 GMT

Galle has to be the worst wicket in the world for Test cricket, fine for ODI's but it's always a road for batting if your lucky enough to win the toss.

on August 6, 2014, 14:12 GMT

Congrats to both Younis khan and Asad Shafiq for wonderful batting, they should start tomorrow as a new batsman and score 200, 100 respectively. And younis khan is 5 less than fifty against prera, any notice that??????

Ajmal_Magician
on August 6, 2014, 14:09 GMT

This lad YK, has again made the whole nation proud. From a position where Pak was down and out, in a foreign soil, he came in and guided pakistan out of it, brought back memories of how Inzi and Miandad used to do it. While scoring tons, he has a cunning habit of converting them into big ones, so beware sri lanka. A classy player no doubt.

ideal123
on August 6, 2014, 14:06 GMT

Excellent player Younis Khan. Seldom given credit for his efforts. Just goes on and on with his job without looking for credit or accolades.

cric1965
on August 6, 2014, 14:06 GMT

Sri Lanka cricket appoint vice captain who has no chance to include playing eleven. Better not to nominate vice captain.

nickexplore
on August 6, 2014, 14:05 GMT

The decision by Mathews not to review his plum lbw of Younis Khan, when he was on 21, has cost SL dearly. Perhaps with so many DRS decisions not going SLs over the past few weeks, explains his reticience on this occasion. But this was as plum as it gets on the replay, and now Younis is on 133 not out, and Pakistan are looking at a huge first innings total, and in firm control of the match.

on August 6, 2014, 13:59 GMT

younis khan never enjoyed the confidence or the respect of the pak selectors as other players like Malik or razzaq did... he surely has a test record that rates with some of the best in the business

on August 6, 2014, 13:53 GMT

pure classy knock , the way he played sppiners tht waz awesome , go for 200 and more , IN SHA ALLAH PAK will win , go green go

AMMAR3438668158
on August 6, 2014, 13:50 GMT

lovely batting, dashing strokes, great stamina and good sportsmanship these are the abilities of younis khan.you are my only favourte player in pakistan team.i always enjoying your batting.your are a great player.CONGRATS you for your brillient centry.you always shows your class.once again congrats to you.but i really miss mohammad hafeez.

TommytuckerSaffa
on August 6, 2014, 13:40 GMT

Younis Khan is very classy and doesn't get the accolades he deserves. His average both home and away is sublime. PAK on top. If they can bat for another session and half they will play themselves into a position of not being able to Lose the test.

Captain_Tuk_Tuk
on August 6, 2014, 13:38 GMT

Younis Khan is still younger than Misbah and has more experience I think he should be Test captain. He is a true legend, a match winner and pure class.

CricketChat
on August 6, 2014, 13:35 GMT

Well played Younis! He doesn't have many yrs left, so I hope he goes out on a high like this whenever that happens.

on August 6, 2014, 13:33 GMT

Yunus Khan is one the best test test player in Pak side, averging over 50.He should continue his good form in Odi for Pak bcoz batting is always a weak point for Pakistan.

sorry for the bad english.

on August 6, 2014, 13:32 GMT

Excellent Innings by Younas.He Should play test untill 2016.He Guides young guys well.Look at Azhar & Asad how good they bat with Younas..
He should eye 10 thousand test runs..Best of Luck.

on August 6, 2014, 13:30 GMT

Wonderful innings from Younis Khan. We are Proud onYounis Khan

on August 6, 2014, 13:26 GMT

If pakistan able to get 450 plus they have a great chance of winning this test much as from day 3 pitch will favour spinners surely..

SaudFaruqi
on August 6, 2014, 13:25 GMT

Great knock by tne Pakistani wall, Younis Khan. He should try to convert it into a double 100 tomorrow.

jb633
on August 6, 2014, 13:19 GMT

Absolutely class innings yet again from Pakistan's giant of a batsmen. Pakistani fans have underappreciated both Younis and Misbah. They are both class acts and Pakistan are in a great position here. If they can get 400 plus with their spinners they should be in complete control. It depresses me so much as an English fan that we lost to this Sri Lankan side. It shows just how bad we are right now. The bowling attack looks toothless, if Pak can get one over on Sanga and Mahela this test is there for the taking.

warneneverchuck
on August 6, 2014, 13:12 GMT

Yk has scored everywher..probably better than sanga and mahela....best subcontinent batsman at the moment

TahirMahmood
on August 6, 2014, 13:07 GMT

Good to see Younis Khan coming into form, he has to score well in ODIs to keep playing upto 2015 WC

SAF-Fan-no-1
on August 6, 2014, 13:06 GMT

I love YK batting - he is only good player in PK. YK Should be in contact A side.

TahirMahmood
on August 6, 2014, 13:05 GMT

An excellent innings from Younis Khan. Hopefully he will continue and make it double ton, and push Pakistan total 400 or more.
Then the game will be transferred to Pakistan bowlers, specially spinners against legends. If Pakistan get lead of 100 or more, surely Pakistan will win and Younis Khan MOM.

on August 6, 2014, 13:01 GMT

well played YK. i think he proved that why he wanted A catagory contract

on August 6, 2014, 12:55 GMT

@"Younis Ahmadzai " Younus avg in Australia 43.16 and in England 52.22, Only in SA his avg is 32.60 which still is not too bad. Younis khan is the most consistant batsman around the world. his average is 52+ after 90 test which is higher than even Amla and deviliears right now.

on August 6, 2014, 12:50 GMT

well done Shafeeq and Younis. But still long way to go. Pakistan pair should not be too defensive in early hour tomorrow take on the Srilankans bowling attack make them tired and then Pakistanis will have better edge in match.

on August 6, 2014, 12:44 GMT

Great comeback by Pakistan. As usual leads by old guns. Now they have to capitalize on this match further to take the score 400+. Just see out tomorrow morning carefully and then accelerate score in 2nd session. Go Green Go.

on August 6, 2014, 12:44 GMT

Yunus is gold. This man always has a trick or two up his sleeves. The young guys have a lot to learn from the master.

SharryBoomboom
on August 6, 2014, 12:37 GMT

Younus Khan and Pakistan all the way on Day One..... lovely batting by Khan. so whts plan is coming i think Pakistan need to hold their nerves in coming immediate session to save wicket and after lunch Booom up and rocksssssssssss

CrICkeeet
on August 6, 2014, 12:13 GMT

All that pakistan hav to do is just pick up a total 400+ nd take full cntrl.. 2moro mrng if SL bwlers cant fire they gonna suffer d whole test 4 that.. but anyway, pakistan is a very unp

on August 6, 2014, 11:52 GMT

he always deliver in subcontinent but failed in Eng, Australia, South Africa

SharryBoomboom
on August 6, 2014, 11:28 GMT

we should not expect much from young openers becz its time for learning but yes middle order have to show its class like Younus and Mishbah if they decide to stay on pitch i consider both of them equal to Inzi Bahi but alone they cant meet the class of Inzi Bahi

Diaz54
on August 6, 2014, 11:23 GMT

You have to bat first but score big, Pak will be all out for 250-290, Sri Lanka game. Game lost

on August 6, 2014, 11:22 GMT

SL have eternally given Younis Khan a chance to come back to form

mastercricket120
on August 6, 2014, 11:19 GMT

Nice play younis khan.

Malik_Murad
on August 6, 2014, 11:11 GMT

@Tommy: Don't expect too much from Pakistan Team. This is their usual start in any series. They have always been a nervous starters....

on August 6, 2014, 10:54 GMT

A masterpiece work by a cricket Master YK

GreensFan
on August 6, 2014, 10:06 GMT

wow what batting performance by YK, Misbah is doing the right thing letting him score and hold the other end. after all there hard work both needs to stay longer.

TommytuckerSaffa
on August 6, 2014, 9:58 GMT

If Pak can bat for 2 days, they will be favourites to win. As with all Sri Lankan pitches, if you bat first, you statistically have a 80% chance to win. The ball will start turning square from day 2 onwards and Ajmal will clean up, while PAK sit pretty with runs on the board.

on August 6, 2014, 9:57 GMT

SL have to remove these seniors before the end of the day.

on August 6, 2014, 9:13 GMT

Khurram is weak against fast bowling. after that 146, he has been poor most of times. Playing after some gap is always hard and it is evident now. I think umar should have been included instead of asad shafiq. The decision to bat first was really a difficult and proved like that. But if paksitan was so unsure and coming after long break then they should have opted to bowl first. Azhar looked good for a while. over to middle order to save.

on August 6, 2014, 9:11 GMT

Pakistani openers will never give good start till they improve their batting technique, always Younis & Misbah show their responsibility and take away from trouble of pak team.

TommytuckerSaffa
on August 6, 2014, 8:58 GMT

Disappointing from PAK, I expect more from their openers considering Sri Lankas pace attack is limited.

on August 6, 2014, 8:45 GMT

misbah is the best batsmen in the team nd u all will see pak will win both series jus wait and watch

deconstruct
on August 6, 2014, 8:21 GMT

Sinhaya: Thank you for your comments. I feel the same way about Misbah, but its a real pity there are some in my own country who are bent on making him the scapegoat every time Pakistan loses.

cricchanel.com
on August 6, 2014, 8:18 GMT

Again historic problem of Pakistan Opening, after 6 months Pakistan is playing its international cricket and on a pitch with lot of early moister and swing. A terrible decision by the captain of batting first with new condition. Misbah should bowl first and khurram's batting technique is not so good.

shenshen
on August 6, 2014, 8:12 GMT

hey Pak fans don't despair so early, sometimes early wickets tend to jolt a team into action, lets see what happens, i'm hoping for a close game!

on August 6, 2014, 8:10 GMT

Pakistan forgot to take singles nd doubles in test cricket. Srilanka bowling well but Pakistan just blocking ball

on August 6, 2014, 7:45 GMT

Gutted to see Khurram manzoor with absolutely terrible technique up front. Also what amazes me is how many chances Asad shafiq is getting, the guy is total failure strip him out of the team right now. Shan Masood must be given chance upfront and Fawad Alam down below. Pathetic selection. Things turned out to be as expected, Misbah and Younis in the middle to face the music for the most part of the day.

on August 6, 2014, 7:43 GMT

oh no dear wahts hapen Pak player he play a poor cricket .only hope misbha and Younis go build plz

on August 6, 2014, 7:37 GMT

Ahmed Shahzad.. seriously??
bring in Asad Shafiq as opener.

on August 6, 2014, 7:17 GMT

why every one bussy with misbah? i am on mathews make is under 250 and bat well srilanka 400 plus and 2nd iinings pak 260 or and srilanka 11 target srilanka on driver seat go lions go we are with u

on August 6, 2014, 7:16 GMT

This series will be repeat of previous two tours by Pakistan, losing both test and ODI series comprehensively. Series started in SL favour as SL dominated first session of first test and series will progress in the same way.

afzal501
on August 6, 2014, 7:15 GMT

Not sure about this Pakistan team selection if you look at our last 5 batsmen no one averages 20 or above and this Rehman who is batting at no 8 is over rated as a allrounder, has anyone seen him bat well, should have gone for Wahab raiz he is really quick and he can bat, again great thinking by selection committee by not including Fawad Alam in the test team then again why would they he is reliable can occupy crease at one end, don't give his wicket away easy and a good fielder.

on August 6, 2014, 7:13 GMT

Silly start with no surprise ... Top 3 falling cheaply

on August 6, 2014, 7:08 GMT

I thing now Pakistan doesn't seem to find good fast bowlers .... talha pure waist.about betting after Anwar inzy ejaz yousuf they didn't find any good batsman.
Y khurram betting style not upto the mark.
Umar was better and I wanna see imran nazir with some good advise from good batters.Else they will be out of world cup.

Sinhaya
on August 6, 2014, 6:46 GMT

Ok Misbah in to bat now. As a diehard Lankan fan, I support Pakistan whenever Misbah bats. Come on Misbah, Pakistan are now 3 down and you are at the middle. Score a ton and show the world that you are the best batsman in Pakistan today and that your retirement is far from likely. I will be the most disappointed person on earth the day you quit cricket. From a Sri Lankan fan.

mzm149
on August 6, 2014, 6:34 GMT

I don't get it why is Khurram Manzoor being given so many chances when he is constantly failing and is showing no improvement in his faulty technique. Its time to give Shan Masood a chance. Poor guy has waited too long.

Umar Akmal is also unlucky to sit out. One of Asad Shafique and Sarfraz should have been rested to give Umar Akmal a chance. But Shafique gets so much previlige without performing. This is ridiculous.

on August 6, 2014, 6:33 GMT

I would have opted for Fawad Alam at number 6 instead of Umar Akmal and Asad Shafique. He is a workhorse and is well suited to bat against this type of bowling.

katch47
on August 6, 2014, 6:26 GMT

Lost the toss again in Galle SL? I know where this match heading. Make sure you guys remove Misbah and Younis early or its going to be a very very very very rough ride

Lahiru should have come in ahead of Kithruwan. The latter showed his incapability to handle short stuff against SA. There's no way he's gonna succeed as a test batsman with a weakness against the short ball. Tharanga also is not a test opener. You simply can't play so lose outside off as a test match opening bat. There may be a chance for him in the middle order though.

on August 6, 2014, 5:32 GMT

going to be interesting match......

on August 6, 2014, 5:20 GMT

Looks like intertesting match for both sides.Spinners could be trumph card... Wishes with Misbha ul Haq :)

on August 6, 2014, 5:20 GMT

ahmad shehzad should be throw out of the team intead of shahzad fawad alam should get a chance

on August 6, 2014, 5:16 GMT

SL should select kusal Perera instead of tharanga and get him experience to be agood cricketer.also instead of jayawardena they should encourage younger guys.if not by the time these guys are in their mid twenties they will not have the confidence and will disappear like many other young cricketers.They need to give opportunity like sanath,arvinda,jayawardena,sanga and the other guys got.That was the reason they became good and played for a long time

pritamdas_circ
on August 6, 2014, 5:09 GMT

Hope Rain doesn't wash the match OUT!

No featured comments at the moment.

pritamdas_circ
on August 6, 2014, 5:09 GMT

Hope Rain doesn't wash the match OUT!

on August 6, 2014, 5:16 GMT

SL should select kusal Perera instead of tharanga and get him experience to be agood cricketer.also instead of jayawardena they should encourage younger guys.if not by the time these guys are in their mid twenties they will not have the confidence and will disappear like many other young cricketers.They need to give opportunity like sanath,arvinda,jayawardena,sanga and the other guys got.That was the reason they became good and played for a long time

on August 6, 2014, 5:20 GMT

ahmad shehzad should be throw out of the team intead of shahzad fawad alam should get a chance

on August 6, 2014, 5:20 GMT

Looks like intertesting match for both sides.Spinners could be trumph card... Wishes with Misbha ul Haq :)

on August 6, 2014, 5:32 GMT

going to be interesting match......

on August 6, 2014, 5:39 GMT

Lahiru should have come in ahead of Kithruwan. The latter showed his incapability to handle short stuff against SA. There's no way he's gonna succeed as a test batsman with a weakness against the short ball. Tharanga also is not a test opener. You simply can't play so lose outside off as a test match opening bat. There may be a chance for him in the middle order though.

Lost the toss again in Galle SL? I know where this match heading. Make sure you guys remove Misbah and Younis early or its going to be a very very very very rough ride

on August 6, 2014, 6:33 GMT

I would have opted for Fawad Alam at number 6 instead of Umar Akmal and Asad Shafique. He is a workhorse and is well suited to bat against this type of bowling.

mzm149
on August 6, 2014, 6:34 GMT

I don't get it why is Khurram Manzoor being given so many chances when he is constantly failing and is showing no improvement in his faulty technique. Its time to give Shan Masood a chance. Poor guy has waited too long.

Umar Akmal is also unlucky to sit out. One of Asad Shafique and Sarfraz should have been rested to give Umar Akmal a chance. But Shafique gets so much previlige without performing. This is ridiculous.